1382 (implied in sprinkled), frequentative of sprenge (see
spring (v.)) or via M.Du., M.L.G. sprenkel "spot, speck," from PIE base *(s)preg- "to jerk, scatter" (cf. L. spargere "to scatter, sprinkle"). The meaning "rain lightly" is first recorded 1778. Sprinkling "small amount"